2008 Beijing Games Swimming

Michael Phelps begins to celebrate the U.S. victory in the 400-meter medley relay Sunday in Beijing, where he won his unprecedented eighth gold medal of the Summer Games.

Michael Phelps begins to celebrate the U.S. victory in the 400-meter medley relay Sunday in Beijing, where he won his unprecedented eighth gold medal of the Summer Games. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Michael Phelps turns to celebrate with Aaron Peirsol as teammate Brendan Hansen lets out a roar as the Americans won the 400-meter medley relay to give Phelps a record eight gold medals for the Beijing Games.

Michael Phelps turns to celebrate with Aaron Peirsol as teammate Brendan Hansen lets out a roar as the Americans won the 400-meter medley relay to give Phelps a record eight gold medals for the Beijing Games. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)